The extension news keeps coming, with the Essendon Football Club pleased to announce that Maggie Johnstone has signed a new two-year deal, keeping her in the sash until at least the end of the 2029 AFLW season.
 
After impressing throughout her first AFLW pre-season, Johnstone is preparing to make her mark in 2026, bringing her aerial strength, competitiveness and ability to win the ball in the air to Essendon's lineup.

Johnstone was exposed to high-level football at an early age, making her Rebels debut as a 16-year-old in 2023 before representing Vic Country in four matches at the 2025 AFL National Championships.
 
Going on to play for the GWV Rebels in the Coates Talent League last season, averaging 21 disposals and kicking 14 goals across 13 games, the dynamic midfielder/forward is a fiercely competitive player who is no stranger to making an impact on the field.
 
The extension reflects the Club's confidence in the exciting young talent and its commitment to investing in the future of its AFLW program.
 
AFLW List and Recruiting Manager Josh Moore said the Club is excited by Johnstone's development and looks forward to seeing her continue to grow over the coming years.
 
"We drafted Maggie with a long term vision in mind and continue to see enormous upside in her, so we're thrilled to have her commit to the Club long term," Moore said.

"She's had a really strong first AFLW pre-season and has continued to develop in all aspects of her game with the support of the coaches and her teammates.
 
"We're excited to see what she can bring both on and off the field over the coming seasons."

Johnstone shares her gratitude and enthusiasm for the Club backing her potential early, and looks forward to the next few years in the red and black.

"I'm really grateful to extend my time at Essendon. It's been such a great environment to come into as a young player, and I've learned so much already from the coaches and the girls. I'm excited to keep developing my game and can't wait to see what we can build together over the next few years,” Johnstone said.

"Signing on for another two years was an easy decision. I feel really supported by everyone at the Club, and I'm looking forward to earning my opportunity, continuing to improve every day and doing everything I can to contribute to the team's success.”

Essendon are set to kick off their fifth AFLW campaign at Windy Hill on Sunday August 16 against Brisbane Lions. Take a look at our AFLW packages here and sync your 2026 season calendar here.